Step into Kwetu Nairobi, and you’re immediately hit by that luxe, homey vibe that screams understated elegance.
From the moment you walk in, the high-coffered ceilings in the lobby paired with that toasty fireplace just make you want to throw off your jacket and sink into one of the lush couches. Kwetu, the third in the Curio Collection by Hilton, is located near the Central Business District, Gigiri, home to the United Nations headquarters, multiple embassies, and one of the largest expat communities in Africa.
Onto our experience. Getting the invite to this launch had our hearts racing, and boy, Kwetu did not disappoint. For those still catching up, “kwetu” means “our place” in Swahili, and the team here took that meaning seriously. It’s like they invited all of Nairobi and said, “Karibu sana, feel at home!”
The Ambience? Issa vibe.
We couldn’t agree more with Jenna Hacket, global brand head, Curio Collection by Hilton when she stated, during the launch, ’Kwetu offers the perfect fusion of nature, city and heritage dating back to the 1800s’’. Allow us to explain…
Kwetu sits right on the edge of Karura Forest, which means you’re getting all the lush greenery, but still close enough to Nairobi’s hustle. The best of both worlds! The space is modern with just the right touch of Kenyan history woven into the design. Five interconnected buildings with names like Asili, Nishati, Eneo, Rafiki and Amani make you feel like each corner of the hotel is telling its own story. The attention to detail? Ridiculous. From the hand-blown glass pendants to the suitcase-inspired bedside tables, everything just screams curated perfection.
Let’s Talk Food
Now, we had to check out the food – because what’s a launch without some tasty bites, right? Kwetu’s got six (yes, six!) spots to eat and drink. We started at 1893 Brew Bar, where the coffee game is on another level. Kenya’s finest beans, brewed with mad skill, had us sipping and savoring. The best part? The views of the Karura Forest from almost every angle in the hotel. You can’t help but feel like you’re dining in the middle of a dream.
Then we hit up Meko, their Mediterranean-inspired spot, which turned into a seafood market at night – fresh, flavorful, and oh so boujee. But the real MVP of the night? Upepo, the rooftop restaurant. With its Southeast Asian cuisine and drinks that looked almost too good to sip, we were in foodie heaven.
The Experience
Let’s be real – it’s one thing to attend a hotel launch, but to experience Kwetu Nairobi? That’s next level. Whether you’re lounging by the pool at Cool Waters, with their light bites and refreshing drinks, or kicking back at Zabe cocktail bar with a view of the greenery, you can’t help but feel like you’ve stepped into a chic sanctuary. And if you’re an adventure junkie, the Karura Forest is practically your backyard – we’re talking nature trails, waterfalls, and even caves to explore.
Did you know that Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty programme for Hilton’s 22 world-class hotel brands? Now you know! Hilton Honors members who reserve through designated Hilton channels receive immediate perks, such as a flexible payment option that lets them mix Points and cash in almost any way to secure their stay, along with special member pricing and complimentary standard Wi-Fi. They can also take advantage of popular digital features available only on the top-rated Hilton Honors mobile app, where they can check in, select their room, and unlock it using a Digital Key.
Overall, Kwetu Nairobi is not just a place to stay; it’s a whole vibe. Whether you’re there for business, a weekend getaway, or just to experience something new in the city, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve found a new home. Hilton Curio Collection has truly given Nairobi a gift – and trust us, you’ll want to unwrap it.
Catch you at Kwetu Nairobi, Stylenerds fam – this spot is a must! Catch us at 1893 Brew Bar, our new fave coffee spot, where every sip takes us back to the year Kenyan coffee was born – because some things just get better with time.
P.S For those who love love a drink or two, they have happy hour everyday at Zabe Lounge from 4-6pm.
